In loving memory of Matthew Russick – July 16, 1984 – January 19, 2022 – a selfless recovery champion forever in our hearts.
In honor of Matt Russick, our cherished friend and colleague, recognized for his inspiring story, teamwork, and helping so many along their recovery journey while advancing a culture of recovery and fostering acceptance within
our community. Matt was proud to share his own experiences to raise awareness, minimize stigma, and increase engagement of substance use resources and treatment. He developed relationships and social networks to break down barriers and engage others in experiences of positive healing. Matt was known for his infectious smile and great bear hugs, and was frequently sought out and described by others as, “a safe place and friend who could always be counted on to be there.” Matt was genuine, caring and put his whole heart into providing opportunities for treatment, better outcomes, and a supportive relationship attentive to identification of strengths and restoring hope.
Considering Matt’s involvement with individuals in the community treatment court program and his advocacy to evolve recovery opportunities for program recipients and their families, please accept this donation in his honor to empower others and assist them on their recovery path.
Matt made a difference and changed the lives of so many. His contributions to the recovery community will forever be remembered and he will be greatly missed.
In our hearts forever,
Friends and Colleagues
UPMC Jameson / UPMC Horizon / UPMC Western Psychiatric Hospitals
“In fact, he said those years of experience as an addict will inform each and every decision he makes as a peer
Courtesy of New Castle News
specialist in UPMC Jameson’s new Peer Navigator Program. He was recently hired to fill the position, which was created as a part of Jameson and UPMC Horizon’s efforts to reconfigure behavioral health care service delivery in Lawrence and Mercer counties.
“I think this is my calling,” he said. “Recovery is my life, it’s not just my job. It’ll help me relate to people a lot more, and it’ll help patients be more relatable to me, too.”
Continue reading here.
Excerpt from 2016 New Castle News Article.
